Are You Curious About Judaism?

Are you curious about Judaism? Our synagogue, Congregation Beth Israel, is offering two programs this fall for anyone who has an interest in exploring the spirituality and values of Judaism.

“A Taste of Judaism” will give you an opportunity to learn about the Jewish religion in just three classes.  It is designed for people who have limited or no Jewish background, but are interested in learning about Judaism.  Many participants are unaffiliated Jews who don’t feel that they know much about their religion, the adult children of interfaith couples, non-Jews who are interested in learning more about Judaism, and partners in interfaith relationships.  Other people who take this class are those who want to know more about their Jewish colleagues’ religion, and grandparents of children being raised Jewish who are not Jewish themselves. Gay and lesbian couples frequently participate in Taste of Judaism.

The program is free!  Rabbi Michael Pincus, a seasoned teacher with a passion for the relevance Judaism has in our daily lives, will lead the sessions.  He is friendly, warm, and engaging, and you will have plenty of time to ask questions.

The class will run Wednesdays, October 10, 17, and 24. There is no enrollment fee, but pre-registration is required.  Contact Cheryl Goldberg, cgoldberg@cbict.org, 860-233-8215 x 224 for more information.

“Introduction to Judaism” is for beginners who want more in-depth learning about the basics of Jewish thought and practice. It is an 18-week course that presents a mix of study, discussion, and practical experiences. It is designed for those exploring a Jewish life for themselves, including interfaith couples, non-Jews considering conversion, and Jews looking for adult-level basics. Topics include Jewish holidays and life cycle events, theology and prayer, Israel, history, and Hebrew. The course is taught by all of the Reform rabbis of the Greater Hartford area, so participants get a wonderful introduction to our spiritual leaders in our Reform Jewish community. It begins on Wednesday, October 10 at Beth Israel. There is an enrollment fee for this course. Cheryl Goldberg, cgoldberg@cbict.org, 860-233-8215 x 224 has more information.

Beth Israel received grants from the Union for Reform Judaism, the congregational arm of the Reform Movement, so that we could offer these classes. We welcome anyone who wants to explore Judaism on any level.  We are located at 701 Farmington Ave., West Hartford. You can contact us at bethisrael@cbict.org, 860-233-8215